A West Midlands Ambulance spokesman said: “Given ambulance staff only record alcohol as a factor if it is overwhelming cause, the true picture maybe more serious than the figures suggest.

“Our staff continue to deal with an increasing number of alcohol related patients every single day and that takes vital resources away from people who really need our help.

“Excessive alcohol consumption continues to play an ever increasing part in call outs attended by ambulance crews and this is especially evident during the festive period.”

The number of women who needed treatment has risen from 5,188 in 2008 to 8,769 in 2011 – a whooping 69 per cent.

Whilst men followed closely from 9,089 to 13,154, a 44 per cent increase. The figures are collated by ambulance crews each time they attend a patient.

The paramedic has to complete a report which includes a question about whether they think the patient is under the influence of alcohol.

Many crews will not tick this unless they have information from those at the scene to confirm this, hence why the number of incidents may be under represented.

Liver disease is now the fifth biggest cause of death in the UK.

National charity Swanswell, which helps people with drug and alcohol addiction, said the figures were a “stark reminder of the harm it can cause”.

Debbie Bannigan, Swanswell’s chief executive, said: “The figures aren’t surprising to us. But are a stark reminder of the harm that alcohol can cause and how easy it is to go from drinking responsibly to alcohol use becoming a problem.”

The Royal College of Physicians has said drink-related health problems could account for up to 12 per cent of total NHS spending on hospitals, about £3 billion.

Studies have shown that 15 per cent of women and 27 per cent of men are drinking more than weekly recommended levels.